Sports writer with The Age

Since returning in round 13 from a hamstring strain, Chris Judd is averaging 21 disposals, including 11 contested, five clearances, four tackles, four inside 50s and 1.4 score assists a game. Photo: Getty Images

While there is a growing expectation Chris Judd will retire this year, the Carlton champion’s statistics suggest he should seriously consider playing on next year.

Those close to the dual Brownlow medallist confided on Monday it was more than likely Judd will end his decorated career at the end of the month.

But his form remains strong. Since returning in round 13 from a hamstring strain, he is averaging 21 disposals, including 11 contested, five clearances, four tackles, four inside 50s and 1.4 score assists a game.

This compares favourably with 2010 when he won his second Brownlow.

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Little wonder former Collingwood skipper Nick Maxwell, who recently retired because of an ankle injury, believes Judd should play on.

‘‘You could even play him more as a genuine forward. He still commands a really good opponent to go to him, and his leadership out there would be huge,’’ he said.

The flipside, though, comes with recent comments from Carlton coach Mick Malthouse, who said it was best for players to retire with something to give.

Judd said he was ‘‘in a similar camp’’ on those views.

Clearly, Judd, who turns 31 in September, still has something to give.

The Blues will not make the finals, meaning the round 23 home clash against Essendon at the MCG looms as his last. That this battle has been scheduled for a 1.45pm start means the MCG could have a packed Saturday afternoon clash for one of the rare times this season.

Not that Judd would really mind, for those close to him expect any retirement announcement to be with little, or no, fanfare as he and his family begin a new phase of their lives.

After all, he said only last month that he doesn’t want a ‘‘retirement show’’.

Carlton has yet to discuss whether there will be any special celebrations on the day, as it is mindful of allowing the 267-game veteran to make his call in his own time.

Judd could yet walk away in the manner of former Geelong champion Matthew Scarlett, who made no mention of retirement heading into the elimination final in 2012. Scarlett fleetingly raised his arm to the fans as he walked off that night after a shock loss.

His retirement came days later via a brief statement on the club website.

Judd has expressed little interest in coaching, with many expecting him to step away totally from football next season to concentrate on business.

But that is unlikely to stop broadcasters from making a pitch for his services, with even infrequent appearances on offer.

Judd has also said his decision would be linked to how his body was feeling come the end of the season. While his form is strong, he is nursing a sore ankle after planting his foot awkwardly in the loss to Fremantle on Thursday night, but the injury did not require scans.

He is expected to line up against the Gold Coast at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.